Friday, July 15, 2016

On the other side, the grass is not always greener

As a meteorologists, people have a love/hate relationship with us depending on what type of weather we tell you is coming. So when we call for sunny skies people tend to like us a little more than saying its going to rain on their parade; literally. However what could be a beautiful week ahead for most people, is not always welcomed by everyone.

This is because we are currently under a moderate drought. This drought is considered a short term drought which is expected to last no more than six months, though if this continues for the next few months it could spell disaster for some farmers. A moderate drought is classified as a drought that could damage crops and pastures, cause streams, reservoirs, or wells to become low, and for our area to develop water shortages. Under these conditions it is recommended by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that local officials should request voluntary water-use restrictions.

Before people start to panic and freak out about running out of water, let me explain that currently it is not dire situation when it comes to water restrictions. On the other hand, for farmers this is a critical time when crops are growing and irrigation is key to having a successful harvest in the fall. If this drought continues or even gets worse then not only does this become worse off for growers and farmers but it even will have a direct impact on all of our day to day activities. So even though our lawns are starting to turn brown, we can bounce back from this drought but only if we get a lot of rain, and soon.

So enjoy these sunny skies and warmer weather but careful what you wish for because the grass might not be greener on the other side.





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